Thai Defence Industry Co., Ltd. (TDI), a joint venture between Thailand’s Defence Technology Institute (DTI) and Chaiseri, has finalized an agreement to supply 100 First Win (FW 4×4) wheeled armored vehicles to Pakistan. This deal also includes the transfer of production technology to Pakistan’s Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), based in Punjab, marking a notable step in enhancing Pakistan’s defense manufacturing capabilities. As the partnership progresses, HIT’s production of the First Win will reinforce the growing defense ties between Thailand and Pakistan, promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of military technology. This marks a new chapter in the defense cooperation between the two nations, with the potential for further collaborations in the future. This collaboration with Thailand’s TDI is expected to further strengthen HIT’s capabilities in manufacturing modern armored vehicles.
The agreement between TDI and HIT is a landmark moment for both countries’ defense industries, with Pakistan benefiting from the transfer of technology to support domestic production. HIT, which operates under the supervision of the Pakistan Army, has extensive experience in producing armored vehicles and tanks for Pakistan’s military as well as for friendly nations. The signing ceremony, held on September 18, 2024, was attended by high-ranking officials from both nations. Key representatives included Colonel Thanai Phuemphun, Acting Assistant Military Attache of Thailand in Islamabad, and Major General Atique Ahmed, Director General Technical at HIT. The memorandum was signed by Mr. Kant Kulhiran, representing TDI, and Colonel (Ret.) Ajmal Rafique, Chief Executive Officer of Margalla Heavy Industries Limited, HIT, with witnesses from both sides, including Pakistani partners from Paradigm Technologies International.
The First Win is a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) infantry mobility vehicle designed for a wide range of battlefield threats, including mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) design by Chaiseri Metal & Rubber Co., Ltd. Chaiseri is most known for its rubber tracks and vehicle upgrades. But in 2009 the company has revealed details of its own vehicle design, the First Win 4×4 (FV). Designed with the insurgency and terrorist activity in Southern Thailand in mind, the new vehicle has been tailored to the demands of operating in areas where trees are cultivated, leaving no room for a Humvee to penetrate. First Win as Chaiseri 4×4 tactical vehicle was first introduced to the public on Defense & Security 2009 event. Next year this new 8-tonne vehicle have been demonstrated at IDEX-2011 in the UAE.
With its all-welded steel monocoque V-hull design, the First Win offers superior protection, ensuring the safety of up to 10 troops plus the driver. Weighing approximately nine tonnes, the vehicle also supports a variety of weapon systems, including a 7.62mm or .50 caliber machine gun mounted on the roof, and can accommodate a Remote Weapon System if required. The First Win is equipped with a powerful Cummins diesel engine (300HP in the original configuration, or 250HP in the E version) and an Allison automatic transmission, offering a top road speed of up to 100 km/h. Its advanced suspension system, powered steering, and run-flat tires further enhance its performance in rugged terrain. The vehicle’s ballistic protection meets NATO STANAG 4569 standards, with Level 2 ballistic protection and Level 3B mine protection under the hull, ensuring high survivability in combat situations.
